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Turntable advice

Hello everyone, I’m looking to buy my first turntable and want to get some advice about two specific turntables that I’m looking at. I can get both of these for a similar cost, so I’m looking for opinions on which way I should go. First, my current system consists of Rockport Cygnus, McIntosh mc1.25kw’s, McIntosh c2700 (will be used as phono stage at the start), dcs Bartok apex for digital, Cardas clear reflection cables (not power), rel no 31 pair of subs and torus power units. 

The tables that I’m down to (unless I choose to not spend as much out the gate) are a VPI Avenger Plus, most likely with a Hana ML cartridge and a Pure Fidelity Harmony with the illustrious se Tonearm and either the same cart or potentially the stratos cartridge. 
 

If I go this route, I’d like something that could eventually get more out of upgrades cartridges or tonearms down the road. Any advice or thoughts would be helpful, especially if you have experience with both. Thanks in advance!

128x128dan_springer

Showing 1 response by tablejockey

tablejockey
3,792 posts
 

 

I'm a long time VPI user, but I'd go with the PF based on what I've seen/heard. 

I'll let others comment on technical superiority on which is "better?"

To my ears, both can be satisfying limited by choice of phonostage, which you'll want to address also.

Whichever you decide on, real time speed montoring/correction is paramount at the level you're seeking. Phoenix(Sota) controller highly suggested on the VPI. I don't think it can be used on the PF?  

VPI is a contentious brand. On paper-wrong on just about everything. What I hear on a properly setup however, is just a "good" as the anything else in price point.

If you go VPI-gimbal arm over the unipivot.

On a personal note- The PF has a more "traditional look" which I find appealing.

 

 

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